Arsenal is reportedly concerned about Bukayo Saka’s fitness ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City, a significant title rival. The 22-year-old has impressed for the Gunners this season, scoring 16 goals and providing 13 assists in 37 appearances across various competitions.
In the Premier League, Saka has been instrumental, contributing 13 goals and eight assists, helping Arsenal secure their current position at the top of the table, narrowly ahead of Manchester City by one point.
However, there are worries about his availability after he withdrew from the England squad during the recent international break due to injury concerns. Initially expected to feature in friendlies against Brazil and Belgium, Saka had to leave the camp and return to Arsenal for further assessment.
The England national team confirmed Saka’s departure, stating that he arrived with an injury and couldn’t participate in training. According to reports, Saka is dealing with a minor muscle problem, and his withdrawal from the England squad is seen as a precautionary measure. But there’s uncertainty about his readiness for the Manchester City game, with Arsenal needing to assess his fitness over the coming week.
Saka has only missed one Premier League game this season, coincidentally against Manchester City, which Arsenal won 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium in October.
Arsenal heads into the international break in good form, winning their last four games across all competitions, including a tense penalty shootout victory against Porto in the Champions League. They’ve also won their last eight Premier League matches, bouncing back strongly after losses to West Ham United and Fulham late last year.
Arteta’s side faces upcoming league fixtures against Manchester City, Luton Town, and Brighton & Hove Albion before meeting Bayern Munich in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
While Aaron Ramsdale and Declan Rice remain part of the England squad, Ben White has opted out of international selection.
